Bone Health

 
WHAT MEN NEED TO KNOW:

Osteoporosis is not just a woman's disease.  Approximately 2 million men in the U.S. already have osteoporosis. Another 12 million men are at risk of developing osteoporosis.  If you are receiving "hormone shots" (Androgen Deprivation Therapy) to treat your Prostate Cancer, you have a much greater risk of suffering bone loss and developing osteoporosis.  If your Prostate Cancer has spread to your bones, the cancer cells can cause increased breakdown or even build-up in the bones.  This damage from the cancer can make the bones more susceptible to pain and fracture. 

WHY IS MANAGING BONE LOSS / OSTEOPOROSIS SO IMPORTANT?

Loss of healthy bone and osteoporosis increase your chances of suffering from a broken bone ("fracture").  This can happen even without a significant injury and can seriously impact the quality of your life.  Fractures of the vertebrae (bones in your back) are the most common type of fracture and cause significant pain and in some cases, the broken vertebrae can even push on your spinal cord.  Hip fractures are especially serious.  After breaking a hip, patients may need to use a walker or cane.  Some patients may need long term nursing care and sadly, more than 30% of men who break a hip will die within the first year.

DECREASE YOUR RISK:

• Make sure you are getting enough Calcium and Vitamin D

• Try to engage in daily weight bearing exercise such as walking.

• If you smoke, try to quit.

• Limit your alcohol and caffeine intake

EVALUATING AND TREATING YOUR RISK:

UroPartners encourages you to discuss your risk for bone loss and osteoporosis with your healthcare provider. UroPartners is pleased to announce the implementation of a Bone Health Clinic for our Prostate Cancer Patients. If you would like to meet with our Bone Health Specialist, you can schedule an appointment in your UroPartners Urology Office.